The Ohio Geological Society

in conjunction with the

Ohio Oil & Gas Annual Meeting

Wednesday, March 5th, 2025

Lunch Provided 11:30 AM

Talk begins 12 PM

Sponsored by ERGON and ONEi

Hilton Columbus at Easton
3900 Chagrin Dr, Columbus, OH 43219

Attendees will have to check in at our registration desk to receive their event credentials. Access to all meeting rooms will be restricted to those with credentials (2025 OOGA Annual Meeting name badges) ONLY🫨

Leveraging Remote Sensing Data and Machine Learning for Predicting Petroleum Deposits

Chuck Knox

Abstract: This presentation examines the use of remote sensing data and machine learning techniques for predicting petroleum deposits. Utilizing ESRI’s GeoAI, it integrates machine learning and deep learning with geospatial data to automate information extraction and classification. Key machine learning methods discussed include Random Forest and XGBoost. The talk covers the application of training rasters, such as satellite imagery and elevation data, to develop predictive models for classification, regression, and clustering tasks. It also addresses the importance of optimizing machine learning algorithms and visualizations to manage increasing data volumes and enhance clarity. The presentation focuses on identifying petroleum presence and absence using advanced geospatial tools in regions including the Austin Chalk area in Medina County, Texas, the Geneva Dolomite in Marion County, Illinois, the Trenton/Black River in Indiana, and the Knox Formation in Morrow County, Ohio.

Bio: Chuck began his career in the Rocky Mountain Region in 1980 as a mudlogger for Exlog/Monoco after studying geology at Western Illinois University. By 1982, he had become a wellsite consultant, collaborating with Charles (Chance) Chancellor on building and selling prospects. Despite a downturn in 1986, Chuck’s resilience led him back to Indiana, where he focused on the Trenton/Black River of the Cincinnati Arch.

In the years since, Chuck founded Knox Geological LLC, a consulting firm that operates in the Michigan, Illinois, and Appalachian Basins, as well as the Cincinnati Arch. His expertise extends to lidar datasets and remote sensing, and he has recently been using machine learning to combine remote sensing datasets to predict petroleum occurrence. Additionally, Chuck has partnered with Racer Seismic Surveys to assist operators in the design and implementation of 2D and 3D seismic surveys.

Chuck is also the organizer of AI Tinkerers Fort Wayne, demonstrating his commitment to fostering a community of like-minded individuals. His career is a testament to his passion and adaptability in the ever-evolving geological landscape.